The inaugural Dean's Medallion, recognizing exceptional individuals who support and bring distinction to the College in a profound way, was awarded to Phillip and Beverly Kramer Goldstick at the College of Education convocation ceremony in May 2013.

More than a decade ago, Phillip Goldstick and Beverly Kramer Goldstick recognized the need for a sustainable training and research program in the area of communication disorders in children and young adults. Acting on their desire to help children and their families in a tangible way, they generously endowed a sustainable training and research program in the area of communication disorders in children and youth in the Department of Special Education at the College. Each year, the initiative, along with the Goldstick Family Lecture, continues to provide new methods and practices to families and professionals to ensure that children with a range of abilities have the opportunity to live as independently as possible in their home, neighborhood, and community. The initiative funds a graduate student and a faculty scholar.

On receiving the award, Mr. Goldstick spoke of his dedication to the University and he shared personal congratulations and encouragement for the graduating students. He encouraged each graduate to learn from their opportunities at Illinois and to take every opportunity to give back to their own communities in meaningful ways.

Dean Mary Kalantzis thanked them with a commendation for their commitement: "You are passionate champions for those with communication disorders. Your deep commitment to research, will continue to break new ground in this area, will make life better for those who cannot advocate for themselves."

Phillip Goldstick and Beverly Kramer were married while Phillip was pursuing his 1953 bachelor’s degree in business at the University of Illinois, and he went on to earn a law degree from DePaul University in 1956. Now retired, Mr. Goldstick was the Chairman of the Board and President of G. Equity Investment Group Ltd. He also holds the distinction of having been a member of the Illinois 1952 Rose Bowl Championship football team. Life members of the University of Illinois Alumni Association. Mr. and Mrs. Goldstick have been generous donors to many university causes through the years. Their two daughters, Gale and Caryn, both hold degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.